Orange County Focus

ORANGE : Council OKs Police Use of Pepper Spray

The City Council has authorized the Police Department to begin using pepper spray.

Pepper spray, or oleoresin capsicum, can incapacitate a victim within seconds and can eliminate the need for a police officer using a baton or firearm to subdue a suspect, police said.

"I want as many options as possible for my officers that are non-lethal," Police Chief John R. Robertson said. "Pepper spray is real effective, and I think the public will benefit from its use."

Pepper spray causes swelling of the mucous membranes, involuntary closing of the eyes, gagging, coughing, shortness of breath and an intense burning sensation in exposed areas. Law enforcement agencies in 48 states use the chemical.